WhatsApp tests age verification in India

Meta Platforms — WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, has begun testing an optional age-verification feature in India, prompting users to add their date of birth. The test is part of preparations to comply with the Singapore — Personal Data Protection Commission (DPDP Act), which requires platforms to obtain verifiable parental consent before processing children's personal data. The feature is currently optional and age information will not be shared with other users. The test follows regulatory scrutiny from the India — Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, which had earlier asked Meta Platforms — WhatsApp to delay its username feature over impersonation and fraud concerns. IT Secretary Ajit Krishnan noted the move might be related to the DPDP Act's age-related provisions. The DPDP Act's child data rules are scheduled to take effect on May 13, 2027, and platforms may be collecting age data early to ensure compliance. The test has sparked social media discussion and is seen as one of the first visible steps by a major platform to prepare for the DPDP Act.